In recent years, ethylene oxide (also known as EtO) has cemented its place in the medical industry as a leading sterilising agent. Since it was first introduced almost eighty years ago, ethylene oxide is now used to sterilise an estimated 70% of surgery devices worldwide. If you work in the medical industry, it’s very likely that you’ve seen ‘sterile EO’ plastered over product packaging.
For those of you that are not versed in this method of sterilisation, we’ve put together the following overview. Specifically, we will go over what it is exactly, how it works, and how it fits into the wider medical picture.
Background of Ethylene Oxide
The first organisation to experiment with ethylene oxide was the United States military during the Second World War. Following successful results, the product made its entrance into civilian hospitals during the 1950s.
The following decade, however, was when EtO really took off and established its role as a leading force in the market. The sterilising method saw a significant breakthrough pioneered by Dr Harold W Andersen, who developed a gas diffusion method where far less ethylene oxide was required to achieve optimal results. Where in past years large sterilising chambers were used for the process, special plastic bags and ampules supplanted them and led to a significant change in the way ethylene oxide was used.
The method is known today as the Anprolene system and it revolutionised the use of ethylene oxide in the medical field. Not only did this period see a growing understanding of the need of sterile tools and environments, but also the demand for minor and complex surgeries rose in tune with medical developments. This meant that sterilisation became more important than ever before.
How It Works
The process is relatively simple. Ethylene oxide works by attaching itself to hydrogen molecules, which then prevents DNA and protein reactions that are necessary for microbes to sustain life.
As long as enough ethylene oxide is used, all forms of bacteria will be killed off and the object exposed will be sterile and ready for use once more. The gas is extremely toxic, which in turn makes it incredibly effective.
Why Ethylene Oxide Is So Effective in the Medical Field
The reason EtO is particularly suited to medical use is that it works extremelywell with compounds that are sensitive to high heat. Instruments that are composed of plastic packaging or that contain electronics or optics can simply not be exposed to the temperatures required for effective sterilisation.
Considering the technological advancements of today, which are continually introducing new tools and objects that are made with plastic, ethylene oxide is becoming an essential factor.
In addition, EtO is a compound that can penetrate thin surfaces. Even objects such as plastic films can be sterilised without damaging the item. Other common items such as paper and cloth can also easily be sterilised using ethylene oxide.
A recent breakthrough, however, is what has really driven the popularity of ethylene oxide. It is now possible to use small cartridges and chambers, which makes the system exceptionally portable and user friendly. This is why it is a top choice for hospitals, clinics and veterinarians alike.
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